Ultimate Cheesy Baked Ziti with Roasted Veggies

Cheesy Baked Ziti Pasta Recipe

The Cheesy Baked Ziti Pasta Recipe is a delightful, comforting dish perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This rich and creamy pasta combines the subtle flavors of roasted vegetables with a luscious tomato-based sauce and gooey melted mozzarella cheese. Whether you’re a pasta lover or a fan of baked dishes, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Preparation Time

Servings

This recipe serves 4.

Cuisine

Italian

Course

Main Course

Diet

Vegetarian

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. In a large saucepan, bring water to a boil. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt and the ziti pasta (or any short pasta you have on hand).
2. Cook the pasta for 12 to 15 minutes or until it reaches an “al dente” texture (firm but tender).
3. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
4. Drizzle 2 tsp of olive oil over the pasta, toss it gently to coat, and set aside. This will prevent the pasta from sticking together.

Step 2: Roast the Vegetables

1. In a pan, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they become tender and golden brown.
3. Add the sweet corn to the mushrooms and sauté for another 2 to 3 minutes until the corn is heated through.
4. Turn off the heat and set the roasted vegetables aside.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. In a separate pan, heat another 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan, sautéing until the onions turn translucent and soft.
3. Stir in the tomato puree, red chili flakes, salt, sugar, torn basil leaves, and the sprig of rosemary.
4. Allow the mixture to cook for 5 to 7 minutes, adding 2 tbsp of water if the sauce becomes too thick. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Once the sauce has thickened, season it with black pepper powder and adjust salt as needed.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Vegetables

1. Add the cooked pasta to the tomato sauce and gently toss to coat each piece of pasta evenly.
2. Fold in the roasted mushrooms and sweet corn, ensuring the vegetables are well distributed throughout the pasta.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Transfer the pasta mixture to a large baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
3. Top the pasta with grated mozzarella cheese, ensuring a generous layer of cheese covers the surface.
4. Sprinkle a pinch of dried herbs (like oregano or Italian seasoning) if desired for extra flavor.
5. Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and lightly golden on top.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Serve your cheesy baked ziti pasta hot, alongside garlic bread or a broccoli salad for a wholesome dinner.
3. Enjoy this cheesy, comforting pasta dish!

Tips for Success

• Al Dente Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta until it’s al dente (firm to the bite) to avoid it becoming mushy when baked.
• Cheese Variations: You can mix different cheeses like cheddar or parmesan with mozzarella for a richer flavor.
• Add Protein: To make this dish more filling, add cooked chicken, ground beef, or sausage before baking.
• Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to the mix for more color and nutrients.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap out regular pasta for gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

This cheesy baked ziti pasta recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. The combination of perfectly cooked pasta, savory roasted vegetables, and rich tomato sauce makes it a well-balanced meal. The bubbling mozzarella cheese on top adds that irresistible gooeyness, making this dish one you’ll want to make again and again.